How to Follow Proper Wedding Place Card Etiquette

When it comes to your wedding reception, follow proper etiquette to decided who sits where.

Instructions

Step 1: Consider that there are several acceptable ways to seat people at a table, all of which will affect the placement of their place cards. Seat couples next to each other or across from one another to encourage conversation. You should alternate men and women at the table.

Step 2: Don't forget that your immediate family members should get the best seats in the house. Put parents of both couples at the same table on opposite sides, or give each set of parents their own table to “host.”

FACT: It is German tradition for a bride to carry salt and bread in her pocket to ensure bounty.

TIP: If you have a group of friends that is too large for 1 table but not big enough for 2, split them down the middle.

Step 3: Mix it up. Don't group all your single friends together at one table. On the other hand, don't seat one single guest at a table full of married couples.

Step 4: Determine the formality of your reception and the place cards. Use Mr. or Mrs. “last name” for formal receptions, or first name only on the place cards. Escort cards should always have both first and last names, as there is bound to be more than one person with the same first name.

Step 5: Give everyone a place. Married couples are, in fact, individuals and should be given their own place cards.

Step 6: Learn the full names -- and correct spellings -- of each person attending, including guests you've never met.